The Centre for Migration Studies at the University of Ghana (CMS-UG) is set to celebrate its 20th anniversary in 2026.
To mark this important landmark, CMS-UG will host a year-long celebration that highlights its two decades of excellence in migration scholarship, policy engagement and transformative partnerships.
Since its establishment in 2006, the Centre has distinguished itself as a leader in migration research and education on the African continent.
It has also shaped migration policy, enhanced global collaboration and influenced public discourse on human mobility in Africa and beyond.
Anchored on the theme ‘CMS @ 20: Celebrating Migration Scholarship, Partnership and the Future of Mobility’, the anniversary will honour the legacy of the Centre while providing a platform to chart its future direction.
The celebration will further recognise pioneering scholars, partners, alumni and practitioners who have contributed to the growth of CMS-UG.
It will also reaffirm the commitment of the Centre to advance migration studies through innovation, inclusivity and impact.
To this end, the Centre will roll out series of programme of academic, cultural and policy-focused activities throughout 2026, beginning from Tuesday, January 27.
These activities will reflect the multidisciplinary approach of the Centre and its engagement with national, regional and international migration dynamics.
In partnership with the African Union (AU), the anniversary year will culminate in a vibrant public float, a community fair featuring interactive activities, an exhibition highlighting research and impact of the Centre and an international Migration Conference on the future of mobility in Africa.
The Conference will examine existing and emerging migration issues, including humanitarian migration, climate mobility, digital transformation and regional integration under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
Director of the Centre and Co-Chair of the Anniversary Planning Committee Prof. Mary B. Setrana, commenting on the purpose of the anniversary, stated: “It offers the Centre an important moment to reflect, appreciate its journey and reaffirm its direction for the years ahead. For us as a Centre, we are proud to have served as a bridge between research, policy and practice. Over the years, we have contributed to migration scholarship, policy development and capacity-building, establishing the Centre as a leading institution in advancing migration studies across the African continent.”
She added: “We are confident that this anniversary will provide an important opportunity to renew our forward-looking vision, deepen evidence-based dialogue, strengthen meaningful partnerships and expand our engagement with stakeholders across Africa as we continue to respond to the evolving mobility landscape on the continent and promote migration as a driver of development and transformation.”
